The past few weeks have been remarkable for Bronny James. He hit career-highs in scoring both in the NBA with the Los Angeles Lakers and in the G League with the South Bay Lakers. His standout performances have showcased significant improvement, prompting a bold prediction from league icon Carmelo Anthony about the future of LeBron James’ son.
Bronny’s breakout included a stellar 39-point, 7-rebound, and 4-assist showing in 38 minutes during a G League game. It marked his best professional performance to date. He also shined in an NBA matchup against the Bucks, recording 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists in 30 minutes, despite the team’s loss.
Though Bronny has played 23 games for the Lakers, averaging just 2.3 points on 32 percent shooting, 0.6 rebounds, and 0.6 assists per game, Anthony believes his potential is undeniable.
“In a couple years, Bronny going to be a real NBA player. Yeah, like a real, real solid NBA player,” the 10-time All-Star stated on his podcast, “7PM in Brooklyn.” “He’s a really good basketball player. He’s a high-IQ basketball player at a young age“.
Bronny James #9 of the Los Angeles Lakers in the second half of play against the San Antonio Spurs at Crypto.com Arena. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Anthony also stressed that Bronny deserves the same opportunities as any other player selected at the 55th spot in the NBA Draft. “I’m not saying is he a starter right now in the NBA,” he explained. “I’m not saying that he’s supposed to have 30, 35 [minutes per game]. I’m saying he deserves a shot just like anybody else in that 55th pick. That’s my belief”.
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G League key to Bronny’s development
Anthony emphasized that the Lakers’ decision to assign Bronny to the G League has been instrumental in his development. There, he has the chance to play significant minutes and build his game, something harder to achieve with limited NBA appearances.
“What I’m trying to say is this is a testament to the G League as well. It’s a lot of people who grinding and hustling down there in the G League,” Anthony said. “So for him to go down there with all of this s— that he got to deal with every single day — go down there and play 25, 35 [minutes] — like he’s showing guys the development and the process of this”.
Bronny’s rapid progress
Bronny’s professional journey began under the immense weight of his father’s legacy. Despite the pressure, his dedication and work ethic have driven notable growth, cementing his place as a legitimate NBA prospect.
In the G League with the South Bay Lakers, Bronny has been thriving, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 2.0 steals, and 0.3 blocks over 34 minutes per game.
Additionally, Bronny made the most of his extended playing time with the Lakers, logging 30 minutes—his most in an NBA game—during a loss to the Bucks. He delivered an impressive stat line of 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 5 assists, leaving a strong impression.
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